On a beautiful sun-filled afternoon, more than 100 family, friends, and CCA staff gathered at OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) to honor 11 kids and teens at the Celebration of Courage. The event, now marking its 20th year, recognizes the remarkable achievements, endurance, optimism, and strength that these Heroes face each day as they fight cancer and other serious illnesses.
The Ceremony
Drew Carney, KGW news personality and Master of Ceremonies, shared each Hero’s story with the audience, while Regina Ellis, CCA’s Founder and Chief Joy Officer, presented them with a custom engraved medal.
The ceremony was particularly meaningful for one family, “It was wonderful to see how excited our daughter was to be getting a medal. It means so much and we have yet another positive thing to share in our story.”
The Dove Release
After the medals were handed out, Heroes and attendees gathered in the courtyard for an annual tradition, the release of doves. The doves are released to represent many parts of each Hero’s journey including how far they have come and the bravery each has shown.
The dove release was the favorite part of the event for many families, including the parents of four-year-old Lyla, “It was unexpected, but because Lyla is done with treatment, it had that much more meaning to us.”
Heroes and their guests were treated to a special musical performance by MyMusicRx Specialists and former CCA Board member, Jenn Klotz.
The Party
The evening capped off in OMSI’s Theory Café with delicious food, create-your-own Superhero kits, board games and more music. It was a truly magical night and we look forward to sharing our Heroes stories with you throughout the year.
Thank You
Our Celebration was made extra special thanks to the many generous donations from our community. Thank you OMSI and Bon Appetit for providing the beautiful venue and refreshments, with additional thanks to The Hungry Hero Dessert Co., for the very popular cupcakes and Goose Hollow Flowers for the lovely floral bouquets.
And, last but not least, a big thanks to our amazing community partners who provided gift certificates to fill our Heroes giftbags: Cabot Creamery, Eagle Landing Golf Club, Elmer’s Restaurants, KingPins Bowling, Papa Murphy’s, Park Lanes Bowling, Pietro’s Pizza, Pip’s Donuts, Portland Children’s Museum, Quarterworld Arcade, Sherwood Ice Arena, Winterhawks Skating Center.
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